Sheffield United boss slams Bolton Wanderers striker

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder is not happy with Bolton Wanderers’ Gary Madine after a video emerged on social media of the striker insulting Blades captain Billy Sharp.

The 26-year-old, who signed for Bolton in 2015 from cross-city rivals Sheffield Wednesday, was videoed last week directing an insulting message to the League One top goalscorer. Chris Wilder spoke to BBC Radio Sheffield on the issue:

“I wouldn’t be happy if one of our players did that and I’m sure their management staff aren’t on the eve of a big game.

“As a player that’s our captain, and scored 21 goals as leading goalscorer, bit of lack of respect.

“He’s not our player. I’d be really disappointed if any of our players did anything like that.

“He’s been outstanding, Billy. I think it’s a bit harsh calling him that.”

The video comes just days before a huge clash in the third-division between the promotion rivals. The Trotters travel to the league-leaders in third-place and seven points adrift of Sheffield United with two games in hand.

Both sides drew last week in tough fixtures with Scunthorpe United and Bradford City. A win for the Blades could put the side within touching distance of promotion and Chris Wilder has labelled the fixture as, ‘The biggest test of the season for us.’

Following last week’s attendance of 28,000, a huge crowd is expected once again at Bramall Lane and the United faithful will no doubt aim to disturb Gary Madine following his comments aimed at their captain.